What are the best practices for vibration analysis and diagnosis of alignment and balancing issues?

1 Vibration analysis basics

Vibration analysis is the process of measuring and analyzing the vibration signals of a machine or a component to identify the root causes of problems and faults. Vibration analysis can reveal information about the condition, performance, and efficiency of a machine, as well as the presence and severity of alignment and balancing issues. To perform vibration analysis, you need to use sensors, data collectors, and software tools that can capture, process, and interpret the vibration data.

2 Alignment and balancing issues

Alignment and balancing issues are common sources of vibration problems in industrial machines. Alignment refers to the proper positioning and orientation of the shafts, couplings, and bearings that connect the rotating components of a machine. Balancing refers to the even distribution of mass and inertia in the rotating components. Misalignment and imbalance can cause excessive vibration, noise, heat, friction, and wear, leading to reduced efficiency, performance, and lifespan of the machine.

3 Case study 1: Motor-pump system

One example of a machine that requires proper alignment and balancing is a motor-pump system. A motor-pump system consists of an electric motor that drives a pump through a coupling. The pump delivers fluid to a process or a system. In this case study, a motor-pump system was experiencing high vibration levels and frequent failures. The vibration analysis revealed that the system had both alignment and balancing issues. The alignment issue was caused by a misaligned coupling that created angular and parallel misalignment between the motor and the pump shafts. The balancing issue was caused by a worn impeller that created an imbalance in the pump rotor. The solution was to realign the coupling using laser alignment tools and to replace the impeller with a new one.

4 Case study 2: Fan-blower system

Another example of a machine that requires proper alignment and balancing is a fan-blower system. A fan-blower system consists of a fan that draws air from the environment and a blower that delivers the air to a process or a system. In this case study, a fan-blower system was experiencing high vibration levels and reduced airflow. The vibration analysis revealed that the system had both alignment and balancing issues. The alignment issue was caused by a misaligned belt drive that created angular and parallel misalignment between the fan and the blower shafts. The balancing issue was caused by a dirty fan blade that created an imbalance in the fan rotor. The solution was to realign the belt drive using pulley alignment tools and to clean the fan blade.

5 Case study 3: Turbine-generator system

A third example of a machine that requires proper alignment and balancing is a turbine-generator system. A turbine-generator system consists of a turbine that converts fluid energy into mechanical energy and a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. In this case study, a turbine-generator system was experiencing high vibration levels and reduced power output. The vibration analysis revealed that the system had both alignment and balancing issues. The alignment issue was caused by a misaligned coupling that created angular and parallel misalignment between the turbine and the generator shafts. The balancing issue was caused by a damaged blade that created an imbalance in the turbine rotor. The solution was to realign the coupling using laser alignment tools and to repair or replace the blade.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?